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Candidates
TU Delft Impact Contest
HeatLift Dynamics (semi finalist)
Industries like manufacturing, food processing, and chemical production rely on gas-fired heating systems that are cost-effective but environmentally unsustainable. The shift to electrification, particularly heat pumps, is critical for reducing carbon emissions. However, this transition faces significant challenges, including high energy costs, inefficiencies in current heat pump technology, and grid congestion. For heat pumps to be a viable alternative, they must achieve a coefficient of performance that ensures cost-effectiveness. Without improved efficiency, businesses may delay adoption, hindering sustainability goals and increasing exposure to carbon taxes. HeatLift Dynamics aims to solve this by optimizing heat pump technology.
Read moreJUMP (semi-finalist)
The space industry is undergoing an unprecedented boom, with institutions and private companies racing to deploy new satellites and spacecraft for commercial, scientific, and technological missions. From global communications to deep-space exploration, modern space missions are more ambitious than ever. However, a major weak link threatens their success: power system failures. Reliable energy is the lifeline of any spacecraft, yet nearly 20% of mission failures stem from power system malfunction: deployment failures are particularly critical, often leaving spacecraft powerless and unable to fulfill their mission. Additionally, current designs rely on oversized, redundant, and costly power systems, increasing launch expenses and limiting efficiency. But what if we could eliminate these risks and provide a continuous energy source? JUMP explores a revolutionary alternative: harvesting energy from the Van Allen Belts and other planets' radiation fields, to supply spacecraft with uninterrupted power. This breakthrough could radically enhance mission reliability, reduce failures, and unlock new frontiers in space exploration, paving the way for an original energy solution beyond Earth's orbit.
Read moreSynchbit.io (semi-finalist)
Manufacturers face costly equipment failures and unplanned downtime due to inefficient maintenance strategies. Traditional maintenance approaches rely on scheduled servicing or reactive repairs, leading to unnecessary costs and productivity losses.
Read moreCovibo (semi-finalist)
In civil engineering projects, poor communication between clients and contractors often leads to delays, confusion, and even conflicts. A significant part of this issue stems from a lack of understanding of contractual obligations, ambiguity about the project scope, and mismatched expectations between both parties. This disruption in the planning, execution, and delivery stages increases the risk of project failure.
Read moreZentence (semi-finalist)
Reading books takes effort and focus, causing many people who struggle with concentration to avoid reading altogether.
Read moreDIY kits for racing simulators
Simulation racing is an exciting and immersive way to experience motorsports, but the required equipment is often expensive and difficult to access. Steering wheels, pedals, and other essential components can be a significant investment, discouraging many enthusiasts from getting started. Additionally, there is a broader challenge: many people are interested in building things themselves but don’t know where to begin or lack the right resources and guidance.
Read moreSircular
The semiconductor industry faces a significant silicon waste problem, with nearly 75% of the material lost during production. Current recycling rates for Si and SiC are extremely low (around 5%), and existing recycling methods are costly and inefficient. Europe’s heavy reliance on imported Si and SiC from Southeast Asia creates supply chain vulnerabilities, exacerbating risks during global semiconductor shortages. A sustainable, circular approach to silicon waste recovery is urgently needed to enhance resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and secure a stable supply of critical raw materials.
Read moreMiniPower Africa
Many businesses in Africa rely on outdated or low-performance computers, which are slow, prone to crashing, and expensive to maintain. Traditional desktop PCs take up space and consume more power, making them less ideal for small businesses, startups, and schools. Despite the growing demand for technology, powerful mini PCs are not widely available.
Read moreAerohauler
Air cargo plays a crucial role in global trade and logistics, but current cargo aircraft face major challenges in terms of efficiency and sustainability. Traditional cargo planes rely on fossil fuels, producing high levels of carbon emissions and contributing to climate change. Additionally, operational costs for fuel and maintenance remain high, limiting scalability and profitability. As global demand for air freight continues to grow, there is an urgent need for a more sustainable and economically viable solution.
Read moreB.O.L.D. – Building Optimization for Lasting Development
The Netherlands has a vast stock of existing residential buildings that present untapped opportunities for energy-efficient renovations. However, evaluating the renovation potential and assessing the financial viability of these projects is complex. Developers and housing associations face challenges in making data-driven decisions that balance renovation costs, energy efficiency, and long-term value. B.O.L.D. addresses these challenges by providing optimized renovation scenarios, enabling stakeholders to make informed, strategic decisions. Our solutions help assess risks and opportunities, ensuring cost-effective, sustainable renovations that enhance building performance and support long-term investment success.
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